Smith Mountain Lake Water Level Today

Smith Mountain Lake is the second-largest body of fresh water in Virginia, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains about 30 miles southeast of Roanoke. Created in 1966 by Appalachian Power Company's Smith Mountain Dam on the Roanoke River, the lake covers 20,600 acres with 500 miles of shoreline.

With a full pool elevation of 795 feet above sea level, Smith Mountain Lake has become one of Virginia's premier vacation and retirement destinations. The area has developed into a thriving community with restaurants, shops, golf courses, and waterfront homes. The lake was featured in the 1991 movie "What About Bob?" starring Bill Murray.

Smith Mountain Lake is known as the "Jewel of the Blue Ridge" and offers year-round recreation including boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, and sailing. The lake's warm waters and scenic mountain backdrop attract visitors from the Mid-Atlantic and beyond.

Fishing is excellent with large populations of striped bass (rockfish), largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and muskie. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources actively stocks striped bass in the lake. A Virginia fishing license is required.

Explore more at Virginia water levels or view the national dashboard.